You Be The Chemist Activity GuidesA long-time educator favorite, the You Be The Chemist (YBTC) Activity Guides: Lesson Plans for Making Chemistry Fun are a must have for those who are looking for ways to effectively introduce important science concepts through hands-on activities! These exciting and valuable teachers' aids are produced by CEF and include two booklets divided by grade levels; one for grades K–4, the other for grades 5–8. The Activity Guide program was originally launched in 1997 and, as of fall 2012, is now in it's Fourth Edition! With each revision, CEF's goal has been to expand the educational content, keep in step with changing educational trends and standards, and provide meaningful connections to chemistry in our everyday lives. The information included in the Activity Guides supports the framework of the National Science Education Standards (created by the National Science Academies) and is intended to make teaching science, specifically chemistry, more engaging for educators and students. Chemistry is the central science, and its concepts often extend into many other subjects as well—and not just within the traditional sciences! This guide helps students make real-world connections through hands-on activities and gives educators tools to create lifelong learners who appreciate and understand the benefits of science! NEW! Fourth Edition You Be The Chemist Activity GuidesThe Fourth Edition Activity Guides feature nearly 1,000 pages of lesson plans, science content, activity sheets, and study materials designed to provide enriching scientific engagement in the classroom! This information is now available at the tip of your fingers—for FREE—by clicking on the download link below or by ordering the low-cost You Be The Chemist flash drive. Download and take the content with you, create selective printouts, display content digitally in the classroom—the opportunities are endless!
CEF extends gratitude to the many people who have played a role in the development of the Activity Guide! Specifically, we would like to recognize and thank our valued contributors and program volunteers. The development and production of these guides are only possible through their generous and loyal support. How Do I Submit My Order Form?
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Complete our survey for a chance to win $150! If you have purchased the YBTC Activity Guides and have used the lessons in your classroom, please complete and return our Educator Evaluation survey. Your name will be entered into a $150 cash drawing!* Thank You and Good Luck! *Drawing conducted annually with two $150 winners. |

The Activity Guides are divided into two booklets according to grade level, one for grades K–4 and the other for grades 5–8. Each Activity Guide booklet contains approximately 30 educator-reviewed lesson plans, activity sheets, and a resource guide filled with safety information, tips for non-chemistry teachers, and much more.
CEF is currently donating its Third Edition YBTC Activity Guide booklets to educators and members of the chemical industry.
Request your copy at comments@chemed.org and experience the excitement!
View a sample lesson plan! (This lesson plan appears in both the K–4 and 5–8 Activity Guide; The K–4 version includes a suggested modification for grade appropriateness.)
Additionally, each K–4 Activity Guide booklet includes an animated DVD to help introduce lessons and concepts, while each 5–8 Activity Guide booklet includes fun review game materials.
All materials needed to conduct the experiments in the Activity Guides can be easily and economically purchased at all-purpose stores, grocery stores, and office supply stores.
Download a complete list of materials needed to conduct the experiments: